Kazakhstan Introduces Updated Work Permit Regulations for Foreign Employees

Kazakhstan has rolled out updated regulations for hiring foreign employees, effective September 1, 2025. These new rules aim to protect local job opportunities while managing the increasing number of foreign workers.

By introducing a mandatory labor market test and digital application processes, the government seeks to ensure that local talent is prioritized in the job market.

Stricter Labour Market Test Required

Employers in Kazakhstan must now navigate a more complex hiring process for foreign nationals. They can no longer directly apply for work permits. Instead, they must first advertise the job on the Electronic Labour Exchange for 15 calendar days in the relevant region.

If no suitable local candidate applies during this period, employers must include the vacancy registration code in their work permit application. They are also required to inform the local employment office about the situation.

This change means that the entire application process will take at least 15 additional days, as employers must wait for the labor market test to conclude before proceeding.

New Online Portal for Work Permit Applications

To streamline the application process, the government has launched a new website: migration.enbek.kz. Employers are now required to submit their work permit applications and renewals through this centralized platform, which incorporates the new labor market test requirement.

Although older portals like egov.kz and elicense.kz are still operational, they have not been updated to reflect the new regulations. Therefore, employers are strongly encouraged to use the new portal for all new applications and renewals to ensure compliance.

Expanded Local Hiring Quotas for Small Businesses

Small businesses in Kazakhstan are now subject to local hiring quotas as well. Previously exempt from these requirements, small enterprises must comply with local workforce quotas once they hire more than 20 employees. Under the new regulations:

• At least 70% of senior management positions, including heads and deputies, must be filled by Kazakh nationals.
• At least 90% of experts and qualified workers should also be local employees.

These requirements complicate the process for smaller employers who wish to hire foreign talent without adjusting their staffing ratios.

Rationale Behind the Changes

The Kazakh government aims to protect local jobs while controlling the influx of foreign workers through these updated policies. The mandatory labor market test is similar to systems in other countries, where employers must demonstrate a legitimate need for hiring foreign employees.

These reforms represent one of the most significant updates to Kazakhstan’s immigration and labor framework in recent years, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to employment.

Conclusion

Hiring foreign workers in Kazakhstan has become a more involved process. Employers must now account for the 15-day labor market test and adhere to the new quotas and online application procedures. By planning and understanding these regulations, employers can avoid delays and ensure a smoother hiring process.

The changes reflect Kazakhstan’s commitment to supporting local employment while managing foreign labor effectively.